SEVERAL events exploring the life of an Abergavenny woman who was seen as a patron of Welsh culture will be held throughout the National Eisteddfod.

Augusta Hall, 1st Baroness Llanover, was an essayist and support of education in Wales in the 19th century, playing a part in the founding of Llandovery College in Carmarthenshire.

Lady Llanover was also a keen promoter of the Welsh language, having written in Welsh under the name Gwenynen Gwent, or 'Bee of Gwent'.

While living on her estate, she helped to nurture the Welsh language and Welsh costume in the community.

To coincide with the Eisteddfod's return to her hometown, the Lady Llanover Society will be holding a series of services and talks to celebrate her life.

Lady Llanover's great-great-great-great-granddaughter Elizabeth Murray, who is a patron of the society, has spoke of her excitement ahead of the Eisteddfod, of which her ancestor was once an award winner in the 1830s.

“Lady Llanover was an inspirational force behind the Eisteddfodau held at Abergavenny," said Mrs Murray, who now lives at Llanover.

"Now the Eisteddfod is back in Monmouthshire this offers a unique opportunity to herald this pioneer of Welsh culture.

"As patron of the Society and incumbent at the estate today, I’m excited to be able to mark the great work of my ancestor in the context of the 2016 Eisteddfod."

The gardens surrounding the childhood home of Lady Llanover will be open to view during the week-long national festival.

Historical lectures will also provide historical insight into various aspects of Lady Llanover's life such as her relationship with Lady Elizabeth Coffin Greenly, the Welsh Gwent dialect, Nineteenth Century Welsh Cuisine and Welsh costume.

The celebration will also be marked by a divine service at St Bartholomew’s Church on Sunday as well as a performance from renowned triple-harpist Robin Huw Bowen.

For full details of the events at Llanover, visit ladyllanover.org.uk/English/english.htm